The Four Major signs of a Gas Leak

14Aug2018

The Four Major signs of a Gas Leak

Having a gas leak in your home is a serious problem that puts your whole family in danger. If you think you may have a gas leak it is essential that the issue is sorted immediately. Knowing the first signs of a gas leak can be the difference between a minor and a major problem for your family and household.

Most of us have at least one gas appliance in our homes for example; cookers, boilers or fires. These all have the potential to leak gas into our homes. This is a serious issue because this gas is highly flammable, and even the smallest of sparks can cause a massive explosion. If carbon monoxide is present in the gas it is toxic to our bodies. Even when carbon monoxide is not present it can still be harmful to breathe gas in over an extended period of time. Check out our guide on carbon monoxide to help take steps to a safe home.

Leading Cause of Gas Leaks

The leading cause of gas leaks is a faulty boiler. The boiler may have been fitted incorrectly by an unreliable gas engineer or in need of gas replacement. It is important to enlist the help of a qualified gas fitter when having a boiler installed, don’t cut corners on price or expertise as you may be putting your family at risk. It is also important to ensure your boiler is properly maintained, many gas leaks could have been prevented if the boiler was checked regularly.

Primary Signs of a Gas Leak

Knowing what a gas leak is, is one thing but would you know how to detect one? Make sure you become familiar with the four major signs of a gas leak and if any of them are apparent in your home call an expert immediately.

Smell of gas

If you can smell gas when you are not using any of your gas appliances then this is a sure sign that there is a gas leak somewhere. In this situation, the best thing you can do is open all doors and windows to ventilate the property and try to release as much of the gas as possible. Do not use any lighters, naked flames or appliances, any electrical spark, including a mobile phone, could cause an explosion. Contact a gas emergency service immediately and they will be able to identify the leak and secure your property.

Colour of gas

A normal gas flame should appear blue. If this flame starts to look yellow in colour it could be a sign that carbon monoxide is present. As mentioned this gas is highly toxic, if you suspect a leak, then turn the cooker off immediately, leave the area and contact an expert.

Appliances

If there is gas in the house small electrical sparks can react with it. These reactions may be seen on your appliances. If you see black sooty marks or burns on your appliances then it may point towards a gas leak.

Condensation

If you notice an increase in the amount of condensation in your home this may be a sign that carbon monoxide is present. It is usual to have some condensation on windows but if you suspect there is more than usual or are at all suspicious it is best to enlist the help of a professional, carbon monoxide poisoning is serious and it is much better to be safe than sorry.

If you have any of these four warning signs of a gas leak in your home you should contact a licensed plumber right away like NLK Plumbing Melbourne, as gas is not something that should be ignored. All our licenced gas fitters are highly trained with years of experience under their belts. We guarantee your job will be completed safely, on time and to the highest of standards. We have worked with all of the major brands of gas heaters and appliances over the years. If you require more information then don’t hesitate to call us right away on 0404 803 333.